How to Get the Most From a Landscaper

Having a good working relationship with your landscaper is the key to ensuring you are able to get the most from their services. Communication plays an important role in ensuring that you are continually satisfied with the services your landscaper provides.

• Check the landscaper's licenses and references. Before hiring a landscaper, ask them to provide you references of satisfied clients. Call their references and ask them what they liked most about the landscaper's work. Check with the local authorities in your area to determine if the landscaper has properly registered their business. Also, check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been lodged against the landscaper.


• Communicate often and effectively with your landscaper. Constant communication ensures that both you and your landscaper are aware of any problems, time constraints, or budget constraints. Effective communication also ensures that there will be no surprises at the end of the service.


• Get a written plan. Before having a landscaper start work on your property, ask for a written plan. The plan should include the cost of the service, the length of time the service will be performed, and any foreseen expenses. Also ask the landscaper to provide you with a graphic design of what structures will be placed where and what plants will be added to your space.


• Ask for advice from your landscaper. Remember, your landscaper is the professional, so while you may have an idea in mind, let the landscaper take the lead on fleshing out the idea and implementing it.


• Treat your landscaper with professional respect. The landscaper and client relationship should be professional and pleasant at all times.